Head of 800-year-old mummy stolen from Dublin crypt

The 400-year-old remains of a nun were desecrated and the head of 800-year-old “The Crusader” stolen by vandals at St Michan’s Church.

The Archbishop of Dublin has condemned the actions of vandals who “badly damaged” the crypt at St Michan’s Church in Dublin, desecrating the bodies of several centuries-old mummies.

The thieves also stole the head of the 800-year-old mummy known as “The Crusader,” as well as damaging the remains of a 400-year-old nun. The Crusader's body had been turned over and his head taken.

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The discovery of the vandalism at the Church of Ireland property on Church Street was made by a guide who was preparing to open the church to visitors.

The Archbishop of Dublin Michael Jackson stated he was “shocked that someone would target this ancient burial place and desecrate the remains of those lying within it.

“Not only have these individuals desecrated the sacred crypt but they have destroyed these historic mummies which have been preserved in St Michan’s for hundreds of year,” he added.

“I would appeal to those responsible to examine their consciences and return the head of The Crusader to its rightful place.”

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This is the second time in recent history that the crypt has been targeted for attack, having been vandalized back in 1994.

Archdeacon David Pierpoint, the Vicar of the Christ Church Cathedral Group of Parishes, of which St Michan’s is part, also expressed his disappointment at the destruction.

“The actions of these people are devastating and sacrilegious. We are upset at the amount of damage that has been caused,” he said.

“But also the crypt will have to close so tourists will not be able to visit. It is very frustrating. I would appeal to anyone with information to contact the Gardaí.”

Have you ever visited St Michan's? Let us know in the comments, below.